UPDATED: Police cordon off street in Ashton-under-Lyne

Police have cordoned off Delamere Street in Ashton, with police tape placed around a cardboard box next to a building.

Delamere Street (between Wood Street and Stamford Street Central) in Ashton has been cordoned off by police, as they investigate an ongoing incident.

Police tape has been used to surround a cardboard box on the ground next to a building currently covered in scaffolding. Forensics officers are on the scene and gathering photographic evidence. Reports suggest that an item of clothing has also been seen on the ground nearby.

Police remain in attendance, but the nature of the incident has not yet been confirmed.

Update (10:39am on August 19th): The road has now been opened, but part of the pavement remains taped off.

Update (10:55am on August 19th): Forensics officers are continuing to investigate the scene.

Update (11:47am on August 19th): It's understood that the Delamere Street scene is linked to an overnight incident in Ashton town centre. Police are continuing to work on various lines of enquiry.

Update (13:42pm on August 19th): Greater Manchester Police have now issued a full statement:

Officers are appealing for information regarding multiple incidents that were reported in Ashton-under-Lyne town centre yesterday evening (Tuesday 18 August).

These incidents included reports of assaults involving a non-toxic liquid substances, now found to have been chilli oil, and reported stabbings.

Several locations were examined by detectives and forensic specialists, including scenes on Stamford Street and Warrington Street. One scene remains in place on Wood Street as investigations continue.

Two men, aged 44 and 50, were taken to hospital with injuries consistent with stab wounds. Thankfully, their injuries are not deemed life-threatening.

A man (aged 30) and woman (aged 22) have been arrested on suspicion of Section 18 assault (grievous bodily harm) and both remain in custody for questioning.

Detectives believe that the incidents are linked and they are not looking for anyone else.

There will be an increased police presence in the area as enquiries continue and officers are keen to hear from anyone who may have witnessed any of the incidents or has relevant CCTV, dashcam or mobile phone footage.

Anyone with any information is encouraged to contact us on 101 or via LiveChat quoting log 3984 of 18/08/26.

Alternatively, you can report anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.